Waxmyrtle? dropping leaves - Ask Extension
I have three, what I believe are waxmyrtle trees, in my yard that are dropping leaves. There are new leaves forming, but they have become very bare,...
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Waxmyrtle? dropping leaves #872424
Asked June 10, 2024, 1:18 PM EDT
I have three, what I believe are waxmyrtle trees, in my yard that are dropping leaves. There are new leaves forming, but they have become very bare, especially on lower limbs. Is there a potential disease and treatment? The is in Florence, Oregon.
Lane County Oregon
Expert Response
Thank you for the photos. This appears to be a leaf blight that is becoming more prevalent along the central Oregon Coast. Here is some information from the Pacific Northwest Plant Disease Handbook - https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/california-wax-myrtle-morella-californica-leaf-blight
Please note the recommended cultural controls:
Please note the recommended cultural controls:
- Prune off infected leaves and branches.
- Remove and destroy fallen leaves from around the base of plants.
- Do not over-fertilize, and do not apply fertilizer late in the season, which stimulates succulent new growth which is likely to be more susceptible to infection.
- Avoid overhead irrigation or apply such that plants are not wet for extended periods of time.
- Keep weeds away from the base of the plant to increase air circulation.
